Standardization of grafting time and growing conditions on softwood grafting in wood apple (Feronia limonia L.) cv. Ellora

Abstract

The present study, titled “Standardization of grafting time and growing conditions on softwood grafting in Wood apple (Feronia limonia L.) cv. Ellora,” was conducted at the Fruit Research Station, Himayat Bagh, Chh. Sambhajinagar under Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani during 2024-2025. The objective was to determine the ideal grafting period and the most suitable growing environment to enhance graft success and plant quality in wood apple propagation. The experiment followed a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with two replications and included 16 treatment combinations based on eight grafting months (June, July, August, September, October, November, February, and March) and two environmental conditions (shade net and open field). Data were collected on growth and survival parameters such as days to sprouting, number of leaves per graft, number of branches, graft success percentage, and survival rate. Findings indicated that grafting carried out in February under shade net conditions (T13) resulted in the highest success rate, superior vegetative growth, and better graft quality, with July, August, and September under shade net conditions also performing similarly. Overall, the study concluded that February grafting under shade net conditions provides the most favorable environment for successful softwood grafting in wood apple, making it a beneficial practice for commercial propagation of cv. Ellora.